Homemade Egyptian bread 🫓 (Aish Baladi) Recipe. طريقة عمل العيش البلدي المصري في البيت بخطوات سهله 🫓

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make homemade Egyptian bread, known as Aish Baladi. This traditional flatbread is a staple in Egyptian cuisine, perfect for accompanying meals or enjoying on its own. Follow these simple steps to create delicious, authentic Aish Baladi right in your kitchen.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 2 cups of whole wheat flour
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• Extra flour for dusting

Practical Tips

• Use fresh yeast for the best results.
• Measure your ingredients precisely for consistent results.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a separate large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
3. Slowly pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, stirring as you go.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ensure the water is warm but not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
• Do not skip the kneading step; it’s essential for developing the dough’s structure.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl.
2. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
3. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Practical Tips

• A warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot in your kitchen works well for rising.
• Be patient; proper rising time is crucial for fluffy bread.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
2. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
3. Roll each ball into a flat disc about 1/4 inch thick.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t roll the dough too thin; it needs some thickness to puff up during baking.
• Use flour to dust the surface and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Bread

1. Preheat a skillet or flat pan over medium heat.
2. Place the rolled dough in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and puffed.
3. Remove from the skillet and cover with a clean cloth to keep warm.

Practical Tips

• Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning the bread.
• You can also use a traditional clay oven if available for a more authentic taste.

Conclusion

You’ve now made homemade Aish Baladi, a delicious Egyptian bread that can elevate any meal. Enjoy it fresh with dips, stews, or as a wrap for your favorite fillings. Experiment with different flours or toppings to customize your bread. Happy baking!